Mustard Free Cilantro-Lime Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Bright, tangy, and packed with fresh herb flavor, this vinaigrette is the kind of dressing that makes you want to pour it on everything. Store-bought dressings are notoriously tricky territory — many contain mustard or mustard-derived emulsifiers tucked into the ingredient list — so making your own from scratch is genuinely the smartest move. Here, emulsification happens the old-fashioned way: a slow drizzle of olive oil whisked into the vinegar and lime juice until the dressing comes together beautifully on its own. The combination of apple cider vinegar, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro gives it a layered brightness, while cumin adds just enough earthy warmth to keep things interesting. A touch of raw honey rounds out the acidity without tipping into sweetness, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can dial up the heat if you're feeling bold. It comes together in minutes and keeps in the fridge for up to five days, making it an easy staple to have on hand for salads, grain bowls, or anything that needs a little lift.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp raw honey
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, or to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Add the apple cider vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to a small bowl or jar. Whisk or stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is combined.
- 2
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened, with no visible separation.
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